Human Rights: A Social Contract

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.”Dalai Lama

Can you see the sadness on the faces of the homeless?

I am reminded of a beautiful poem by my friend Amy Becherer; in it she used the metaphor of snowflakes falling. Each is unique, millions of them falling gently from the sky, separate as they travel their journey, all within touching distance of each other and yet not quite connecting. I found that poem to be profound as a testament of the human race.

Can you hear the cries for help from the abused children?

Longfellow talks to us about ships passing in the night, bare recognition and then darkness once more. Is that what we have become? Have we truly forgotten the importance of community, of love, of empathy and compassion?

Can you feel the tears shed by the hungry?

When did we lose touch with one another? How did that happen? When did we become so guarded, so frightened, so reticent and so lonely? As a society we live as if in a cubicle, our own little illusionary cell, safe-guarded, or so we think, from all that can harm us. Unfortunately, in seeking protection, we have forfeited freedom and comradeship, and in so doing we have lost an important part of who we are.

Can you speak words of love for those who have none?

This cannot continue! As the Dalai Lama states, humanity cannot survive without a return to love and compassion for all. We are only isolated because we choose to be. We are like sheep awaiting sheering, timidly accepting our fate as if it were pre-ordained and we have no choice.

Politicians scream their differences and threaten holocaust if we do not listen and vote accordingly. Nations scream their differences and threaten holocaust if we do not listen and bow to demands. It is insanity and we allow it, and we are a part of it, and there is only one answer….we must come together under the common flag of humanity.

Each of us has certain human rights that cannot be denied. Call them unalienable rights if you will; call them life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness if you will; all I know is that every human being deserves, at the very least, these most basic of rights. If we do not have them then we must demand them, and in so doing become the catalyst of change. If others do not have them then we must demand that they also have them, and in so doing become the catalyst of change.

It is beneath us to turn our heads when injustice occurs, hoping that by not seeing it we will not be responsible for it. We are not snowflakes unless we choose to be. We are not ships passing in the night unless we choose to be. We are human beings and it is time for us to act as human beings should act.

It is time to hear! It is time to see! It is time to speak out! It is time to feel!

DO THE BLIND AMONG US TRULY NOT SEE?

Do the human snowflakes truly not see? Is it possible that ships passing in the darkness of this world are not aware of the suffering around them?

How have we reached this point? How is it possible to see human misery and not be affected by it? And yet I have seen proof of it! I have seen those who ridicule the homeless. I have seen those who turn their backs on suffering so acute as to be palpable. I have seen ego and selfishness, and I simply do not understand it. I need to understand! I need someone to explain to me how it is possible for one human being, let alone hundreds of thousands, to not be shaken to their very core by it all.

No one is blameless! The twin evils of indifference and callousness are found in every nook and cranny of society, from the log cabin in Minnesota to the high rise condo in Los Angeles; from the adobe hut in Baja Mexico to the villa in Italy. We have all been affected by a general malaise that threatens to overcome the very essence of what we are, and it needs to end. Excuses and explanations are all worthless, serving only as pablum for those in need of an intellectual smoke screen.

Snowflakes truly cannot see, and ships do not have the ability to discern shapes that surround them. Human beings, however, can and do!

I Am Responsible

Social Issues: I Am Responsible!As members of the human race, we are all responsible when we face injustice. It can be no other way if we are to call this a free and equal society.

A HUMAN CONTRACT FOR US ALL

I will be honest with you; I am fed up with apathy. I am fed up with the have’s not caring about the have not’s. I am fed up with the wealth of a few being built upon the blood, sweat and tears of the many. I am fed up with the abuse, the poverty, the suffering and the deprivation. Most of all, I am fed up, and disgusted, by the lack of love and compassion I see in today’s world.

Let me ask you this question: if you saw a dog hit by a car, would you stop and help that dog? Most people I know would say yes, of course, I would stop immediately and do what I can to help a suffering animal. And yet…..and yet daily we pass by human beings who are suffering and we do nothing. Please explain the logic because I, for one, do not see it.

So I write this contract, in hopes that others will sign it, and in doing so will commit to a new world order, one built upon qualities that will never grow stale, qualities like love, compassion, and empathy. I ask you all to look to your heart and see that we are all the same, and to understand that what happens to one happens to all.

From this day forward I promise to treat others with compassion!

From this day forward I promise to treat others with empathy!

From this day forward I promise to let love be my guiding star!

From this day forward I promise to show more humility and less ego!

From this day forward I promise to act like I am part of a team rather than the star player!

From this day forward I promise to be more human!

Love is the only answer | Source

ONE SNOWFLAKE AMONG BILLIONS

Yes, the lone snowflake falls from the sky untouched and unaffected by those swirling around it, but once it lands upon the ground, it forms a connection with the billions that fell with it. In fact, I suspect that a snowflake will remain much longer if it does connect with others; a molecular bond will form and that bond will prevent melting for a longer time.

So it is with our lives! We are not alone! Our actions directly affect the lives of those around us, and could indirectly affect thousands of other lives. We all derive strength and comfort from each other; conversely, we can all derive fear and suspicion from each other. We can be the conductor of a positive change, or the destroyer of unity.

We have huge problems in the world today. I have no doubt there are some who think everything is wonderful right now; after all, they have everything they want, everything they need, so everything in their little world is A-OK! Who cares that there are millions starving? Who cares that there are millions homeless? Who cares that there are millions suffering?

The answer to all of those questions should be you and me! We should care and we should do something about it. I was not raised to ignore the suffering of others, and I absolutely refuse to do so. With my writer’s voice I will speak for those who have no voice. My words may fall on deaf ears, but they may also fall on those who have not lost their humanity, and they will sign my contract, and one by one we will form a cohesive bond of change.

It begins with me…..today…..today I sign my social contract supporting human rights!

Comments

No HTML is allowed in comments, but URLs will be hyperlinked. Comments are not for promoting your articles or other sites.

sending

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Vladimir, it would be very hard for me to argue with your statement. Give me love and compassion any day over government and greed! Thank you!

Vladimir Uhri 5 years agofrom HubPages, FB

I think, this nation needs return to God. Then love and compassion will fallow (I am not talking about religion, which is man made).

I agree with love and compassion. But it will not come from nowhere.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Kartika, thank you so much, and your words are very true. Now, more than ever, this world needs love and compassion.

kartika damon 5 years agofrom Fairfield, Iowa

It is wonderful to see a hub that acknowledges the Dali Lama - he is a great teacher and humanitarian who is leading by example. His universal message of love and compassion is exactly was the world needs now and has always needed and what all great teachers have taught.

Thank you for reminding me of him!

Kartika

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Au fait, great metaphor about the lifeboat. I am disheartened each political budget season when cuts have to be made and Social Service and Education are the first to get the ax. When will our leaders wake up?

So we just have to keep raising awareness and slowly change will come...at least, that is my hope.

Thank you my caring friend!

C E Clark 5 years agofrom North Texas

You were absolutely worth saving Bill. Not only because I know of the good you've done since, but because everyone is worth saving. Everyone has a part to play, a contribution to make. Only God knows for sure what a person is worth.

I think when the chips are down it is everyone's responsibility and duty to save as many people from drowning as possible and no one should stop pulling more people into their lifeboat until that boat has reached saturation where one more body will sink it. Up to that point a person should keep trying to save everyone they can.

It makes more sense to me to shelter, feed, provide medical care, and educate people, all of which are positive things, than to kill people or let them die from hunger or lack of medical care.

In this country tons of money is spent to kill people (war) and to provide as little medical care and other necessities as possible. Wrong headed people seem to think killing people or letting them die is some sort of virtue.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Michelle! You are a compassionate and caring human being and for that I thank you!

Michelle Liew 5 years agofrom Singapore

We need to provide people with that little window of empathy and care, something our society has long forgotten.Thanks for this beautiful reminder that the homeless and abused are not discards...they are people in dire need of help and if we want them to function fully again as members of society we need to really lend a hand. Thanks for sharing, and I share as well.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Au Fait.....I am not going to be able to do your comment justice. What a beautiful, heartfelt and heart-wrenching set of comments by a person who obviously feels deeply about humanity.

You may or may not know, but I was homeless in 1989. Let me ask you this, and I'll ask it of anyone reading this: was I worth saving? I say that with no ego, but I can tell you that since that time I have taught school for sixteen years, and now I am a writer....was I worth saving?

These people (the homeless) are not discards, or rejects, or anything less than human. These are real people, just like you and me, and they need help. Who is going to help them as I was helped?

I have worked with the homeless; I am convinced that if everyone had that opportunity (including the politicians) we would have no homeless problem in this country.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your compassion.

bill

C E Clark 5 years agofrom North Texas

A fantastic hub Bill. Unfortunately so many people are hardened in their hate, their mean spiritedness, their selfishness, and their heartlessness, that it is unlikely to get through to them.

With so many homeless people in our country, so many homeless veterans, so many homeless people with degrees from universities, even homeless children in our country, so many people dying every day (more than 3 per hour) because they have no access to healthcare, I think things will not improve anytime soon.

A lot of people who have been fortunate not to have been adversely affected by this economy are so out of touch as to exactly who the homeless people in this country are that it's not apathetic, it's just plain pathetic. A lot of the homeless people today are not uneducated or lazy. They don't have mental disorders, and they aren't junkies or alcoholics. Believing these things about the homeless is being uninformed and perhaps a justification in the minds of some people for not helping.

My stats professor announced at the beginning of one class that a large percentage of homeless people had mental disorders so there was no reason to be concerned about them because they were of no consequence. A lot of people who belong to the same club he does really believe that way. Characterizing people a certain way makes it easier to view the homeless as throw-aways or disposable people.

Another person who was training me on a new job where we were frequently exposed to homeless people told me that homeless people are "mental" and "they don't really want to have a home. They like being homeless."

Employers refuse to hire anyone who is not already employed, thereby making things harder for those people already suffering. When it comes to employment it is a game of musical chairs amongst those people already employed. Anyone who has been unemployed for any reason for even a millisecond will not even be considered for employment because they are not already employed. No, that has not changed. Even unemployed people with degrees up the wazoo need not apply.

There may be the odd person here or there who manages to get through that barrier because they know the right people, but for the vast majority of people, if you aren't already employed, you will not be considered.

Does anyone reading this know how easy it is to get a job when one has no address or phone number? Or if one must give a homeless shelter for their address or phone number? It’s almost impossible. It’s not easy at all. Homeless and unemployed people are often viewed by employers as 'defects' when really it is the employer who is defective. The employer is mean spirited and heartless, and those are in my not so humble opinion, defects.

Can you believe, a person I know with a master's degree who is a deacon in the Catholic Church told me he would not give a homeless person so much as a sandwich because that homeless person would just turn around and sell the sandwich to get money for drugs. He was speaking of homeless people in general, not a specific homeless person.

Would you buy a 'used or second hand' sandwich from a questionable source? Would any of your readers? Who exactly is going to buy this sandwich from a homeless person? Surly not another alcoholic junkie homeless person?

In fact there is a much better reason for not giving a homeless person food or money, if a person feel's the need to justify their lack of compassion. It is against the law to do so and you will pay a hefty fine and possibly go to jail. That's right, it's against the law in many, many places first of all to be homeless, and secondly to help someone who is homeless. Now heartless people have a real excuse not only to refuse help to less fortunate people, but also to look down on the criminals who do!

I don't think it's a desire to avoid responsibility that drives people to look the other way as they are stepping over homeless people and demanding that their city councilmen have them arrested. I think it is love.

Oh no, not love for people, are you kidding? No -- love for money. All these people fear they may have to part with some of their money in order to help the less fortunate, and to them that is worse than being condemned to Hell. They don't want to get involved lest the unthinkable befall them -- parting with another penny or two of their beloved money.

You have written this article so eloquently. I hope everyone will read this hub and take it to heart. I fear however that you will be preaching to the choir because the people who need to read and digest your message will avoid it. Those same people who haven't any idea who the homeless are, those people who sneer at the homeless and imagine themselves as somehow superior, sadly, have no heart.

Votes up and awesome! Will share.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Beckie, no, all is not lost. There are some remarkable people in my life, and we take care of each other. I have been blessed, Beckie! I am fully aware of the goodness that has entered my life in the last six years, and I'm grateful for each and every day.

love and blessings to you my friend; tell your mom hi for me.

bill

Shining Irish Eyes 5 years agofrom Upstate, New York

Yes - my friend. You are all too correct with the conditioned thinking of the world today.

But I do feel it necessary to point out the unconditional love, support and care I have come in contact with throughout my journeys. Some individuals, such as yourself instill the faith many may not have in human nature today.

So many good people have crossed my path and many are right here on Hub. I also have to say I have been blessed to cross paths with such kind individuals out on those mean streets as well.

All is not lost, this hub and the person who wrote it is a fine example.

Blessings to you Billy. XO

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Genna, thank you for stopping by. I"m sorry I haven't been commenting; I picked up new customers and just got buried in my SEO articles with no time for commenting like before. I hate it when job infringes on my play time, don't you? LOL Anyway, I appreciate your comment; I feel better about the human race because of people like you and Sunnie and Faith!

Genna East 5 years agofrom Massachusetts, USA

As with so much of what you write, I was both inspired and encouraged.

“The answer to all of those questions should be you and me!”

Absolutely, Billy! :-) As Sunnie says, “We have to do the work.”

This hub made my day.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you again, Robin! The concept I write about is not a difficult one to understand, but it seems to be very difficult for many to live by. Not sure why that is, but I'm going to keep ringing this bell in hopes that someone will hear it.

Robin Grosswirth 5 years agofrom New York

There but for the grace of god go I........

To care and come under what you brilliantly called "the common flag of humanity" is so very important. We need to be more cohesive because as an interdependent world what impacts you, impacts me.

Sharing and voted as always, awesome.

Best,

R

PS: Not sure if I read Amy's piece, but if I didn't, I will. If I did and somehow forgot, I will read it again and remember its connection here.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Gamerelated, you should have written this hub! What a wonderful comment and every word of it is true. Bravo for your insight and your feelings.....i believe this with my entire being.....the suffering is my responsibility...I cannot ignore it....and I will not ignore it.

Thank you!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Ananceleste, that was a beautiful comment and I thank you for it. A universal responsibility....yes, I agree with that completely.

Gamerelated 5 years agofrom California

I think people see what is going on around them, but a lot of people choose to ignore it because having compassion forces people to accept responsibility. A lot of people in our world today don't want accept responsibility.

Politicians on TV tell us that the poor people need to be responsible for themselves. That they created their own predicament. They tell us that the poor are poor because they are lazy. They see giving them aid as creating a permanent class of dependent people.

Some people ridicule homeless people because they want to believe that the homeless people are homeless because they didn't work hard enough. To admit that some people are homeless because modern society is unfair forces these people who do have money to admit that they possibly are "winning" in a system that is rigged for them to win and for others to lose.

Some people don't feel compassion because feeling compassion makes them feel guilty about what they have in life. Feeling compassion makes it difficult for them to enjoy the privileges that they have--the $100 dollar dinner plate doesn't taste as good when you know that somebody outside is eating out of the trash can. That glass of wine at the finest restaurant doesn't go down as smooth when you know that somebody outside is drinking really cheap whisky to drown their sorrows and relieve their suffering.

I think the common thread in all of this is not accepting responsibility. Its like what you pointed out in this Hub. Signing the contract means that we acknowledge that we are all responsible for the suffering of our fellows. I wish more people would admit that. Good work on this Hub.

Anan Celeste 5 years agofrom California

I remember nine years ago, I attended a conference at the University of Puerto Rico where the Dalai Lama was the guest speaker. My late stepfather was invited and he took me with him. I remember crying , overwhelmed with emotion as I heard this man pleading for everyone present to have more compassion, more understanding. That day something changed in me. I felt the responsibility to do something, anything. To change, and how I could help.

Of course, sometimes I felt that nothing I did was making a difference. Then I would remember something that he mentioned more than once, that we have a universal responsibility to have compassion and grow in love. Is not impossible, for change to come about, we just have to start with the man(woman) in the mirror.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Tammy, I have no idea how families are making it. I am fully aware of how lucky I am. Something has to change, Tammy...we are headed for a meltdown.

Thank you my friend!

Tammy 5 years agofrom North Carolina

Your writing in this hub is beautiful and eloquent. I agree with your thoughts. I too am tired of apathy, greed, and the restrictions placed on everyday citizens by an empty economy that keeps the have nots in the place where they can't get ahead on the attributes that SHOULD count. I really worry about all the poor families living on minimum wage. I can't imagine how some people are eating. Excellent thoughts.

Maria Jordan 5 years agofrom Jeffersonville PA

Dear Bill,

As much as I love teaching, the most rewarding and sobering position I ever held was working with the homeless. The men and women I served were typically so very grateful for the smallest kindness shown.

This was the turning point for me...in actually seeing how little we need in comparison to others, who survive with so much less.

Your words resound with me and I pray that many will read and heed.

Voted UP and UABI. Hugs, Maria

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Deb, I believe that, and my job now is to convince others. Thank you for being a true believer in the power of one person!

Deb Hirt 5 years agofrom Stillwater, OK

Bravo, Billy. One voice in the sea of many. We are adding to the one with each and every one of us here. Soon we will be many in the sea of change and our efforts cannot be wasted.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Whonunuwho, thank you so much! I guess I never looked at it that way, but I am honored by your comment.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Christy, I was wondering where you went to...glad you are back, and thank you for the kind words.

whonunuwho 5 years agofrom United States

Bill you once told me in one of your comments on my hubs that you tried and tried to write poetry, but could not in the final analysis. I beg to disagree. You have written a master piece of poetry in this work and one of a wonderful quality. Thank you for sharing this splendid example of humanity, my friend.

Christy Birmingham 5 years agofrom British Columbia, Canada

Wow Bill I am so pleased to be back here and one of the reasons is your inspirational writing. You have a knack for bringing hope where there seems like little and inspiring your readers. Thank-you.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you again Joseph! :)

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Joseph, and you are right, the great thinkers have talked about a social contract for hundreds of years.....and still.......

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Vellur! I will be proud to walk by your side on this issue!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you, Martin, for the visit....as always!

Joseph De Cross 5 years ago

If Richard Gere Loves this Dalai Lama, then he must be a great thinker. That Social Contract was born way before civilization, and we all are bound to it. Society is just a continuation of this cell called family. Great comments I see, and I just commend your writing for the sake of our own country.

Joseph De Cross 5 years ago

If Richard Gere Loves this Dalai Lama, then he must be a great thinker. That Social Contract was born way before civilization, and we all are bound to it. Society is just a continuation of this cell called family. Great comments I see, and I just commend your writing for the sake of our own country.

Nithya Venkat 5 years agofrom Dubai

Oh yes, I am totally with the contract. As you have said we should be concerned and do something about it. As you have written - this is so true -" Snowflakes truly cannot see, and ships do not have the ability to discern shapes that surround them. Human beings, however, can and do!". It is indeed up to us to change it Great hub, voted up and shared.

Martin Kloess 5 years agofrom San Francisco

It begins with me... SO RIGHT! Thank you for sharing and spreading this.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Well, Gail, I am quite happy with that comment, so more words really aren't necessary. Thank you so much!

Gail Meyers 5 years agofrom Kansas City - United States

What an amazing hub, Bill! I find myself without adequate words to respond beyond letting you know I think this is a fabulous hub. Voted up and awesome!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Ruby, and your one point is the most important: who are we to judge? I've been both homeless and I'm an alcoholic, and all I needed was a helping hand.

Ruby Jean Richert 5 years agofrom Southern Illinois

I firmly stand with you Bill. I never pass a homeless person without thinking that could be me. I have given money and watched the man go to the first bar for that much needed drink. Who are we to judge? When an alcoholic needs a drink to stop his tremors, food is the last thing he's thinking about. As an R.N. I have worked with many. I do agree that many use the system, food stamps, etc. Great hub.Thank you again.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Faith, my dear, you are one of a kind. I will walk with you, and when you need extra hands, and feet, I will supply them. Thank you for your compassion!

love and peace,

bill

Faith Reaper 5 years agofrom southern USA

Hi Bill,

You know how I feel about this subject that weighs heavy on my heart, as I have written her too, of true accounts, after seeing the homeless right around the building in which I work. He revealed to me I had to do something, and that was that ---my eyes were open.

They are human beings on the street, not just garbage, as they are veterans, children, mothers, fathers, sons, daughters----people!

Now, let's be the hands and feet to lend a hand. In His Love, Faith Reaper

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Barbara! Those are kind words and I will try hard to live up to them.

b. Malin 5 years ago

Always a Beautiful, Educational read. I am now Smiling and thinking all it takes is YOU and Me and People who care. Bill, you Inspire as you Guide... We are all Blessed to have you and your Wisdom among us...And the Talent to put these thoughts into worlds for all to read.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Alex my friend, thank you! A beacon? I really appreciate those kind words. Let us hope that more and more find the path as the years progress.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Pamela.....you are right of course, it is so little to ask. Then why is it so hard for many?

I appreciate you taking the time to visit my humble site.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thunder, thank you so much, for the kind words and for signing my contract. My voice....it came out of nowhere, when I least expected it. I 'am so grateful for your words; they validate my work. Keep looking to your lovely girls for the hope we all need.

SilverGenes 5 years ago

Your hubs are like beacons in the dark. With everything that is going on in our world, it's hard to know where to begin and yet you quietly and lovingly provide a road map. You are so right. This is where it all starts - with you and me and the next and the one after that. I'm pledging and paying it forward!

Pamela Oglesby 5 years agofrom United States

This is a beautiful hub and it should inspire everyone to take the time to help others, smile and be kind. It is so little to ask. We are not suppose to judge out others as we are only accountable for our own actions (or in actions might be a better way to phrase it). Another awesome hub in your series.

Catherine Taylor 5 years agofrom Canada

What a fantastic call to arms. Consider it signed. Your writer's voice is your gift billybuc and your message is being heard. Never stop caring and never stop writing, your words are the catalyst for change. I look to my three lovely girls for hope everyday, a new day is dawning I promise.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Sasha, I will proudly walk alongside you into the future. We need more people like you.

Thank you my dear; I hope you had a great weekend.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Keith, I truly hope that you are right....I pray that you are right. I'll have to do some reflection on that and get back to you in the form of another hub!

Thanks buddy!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Sha, I don't have an answer to any of your questions. Me? pissed off? I'm just getting warmed up! LOL It's a new week, but I have to pace myself so I'm not known as that crazy person who never has anything good to say about humanity. :) Thank you my dear friend!

love,

bill

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Justsilvie, I know of no other way to do it, because it is overwhelming...start with one person and keep moving forward. Lovely comment; thank you so much.

Sasha Kim 5 years ago

I absolutely love your contract!

"From this day forward I promise to treat others with compassion!

From this day forward I promise to treat others with empathy!

From this day forward I promise to let love be my guiding star!

From this day forward I promise to show more humility and less ego!

From this day forward I promise to act like I am part of a team rather than the star player!

From this day forward I promise to be more human!"

Sign here - Sasha Kim ^_^

Thank you for another fantastic hub that helps remind all of us to be better people who live for others and not for solely selfish desires.

Voting a bunch and sharing!

KDuBarry03 5 years ago

Looking back from history until now, I think humanity is very, very slowly growing into love, empathy and compassion. We can see these three aspects are nonexistent as long ago as the black plague (and then some). From what I see with quite the number of people joining causes, I think there is more compassion and empathy in the world. Who knows when the whole world will take part in compassion, love, and empathy :)

Shauna L Bowling 5 years agofrom Central Florida

Bill, I just love it when you get pissed off, although I know it takes a lot out of you. I perceive you are drained by the time you finish the hubs in this series.

What people don't understand is any one of us can suddenly face atrocity and be without with no where to go or any idea how we got there or how to fix it! Humanity as a whole has lost their individual souls. We, instead have concentrated on THINGS. Things stop working. Things deteriorate over time. Things mean nothing when the cost is the deterioration of our compassion, love, respect and consideration. Homosapiens are grouped as 'mankind'. What has happened to the 'kind' in Man?????

Justsilvie 5 years ago

Wonderful and inspiring Hub,

I have heard this discussion for a long time and I found that people are not uncaring in general just often overwhelmed, there is so much need on this planet where do we start? A friend told me the answer I liked the best. Start with one person and go from there But fighting for a fairer balance on this planet is 2nd on the list.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Steph; I am not sure what the answer is, but I know that ignoring suffering is not the answer nor will it every be. Thanks for a great comment and my best to you and yours.

Stephanie Hicks 5 years agofrom Bend, Oregon

Beautiful and inspiring, as usual Bill. Just about a week ago, we spotted a man that had attempted to be well groomed, holding a sign asking for money for community college tuition. It was so striking. I had my daughter roll down the window and give him the last bill in my wallet.

He was so grateful - I still carry that wonderful feeling from that moment. And I'm sure my daughter does too. Compassion is not a sign of weakness. No, it is strength. It is the very essence of who we are as humans.

Really love this heartfelt hub and I hope that others are inspired by it, as well. We need more people like you, Bill! :) Best, Steph

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Paula, you can take all the space you need, because your message is one near and dear to my heart. There is a very clear reason why we are friends....we both care about people! Well, that and the fact that we are both really cool people. :)

You are oh so right about charities and the need to be careful. I like the grassroots charities locally where I can get to know them, find out how the money is spent, and see the results of that charitable work. I also like doing my own thing because I know for a fact where my money and efforts are going.

Great comment....we all can make a difference. If the government is not going to then it is up to us.

Thank you Paula; tomorrow I'm announcing my candidacy for President of the United States.

Paula 5 years agofrom Beautiful Upstate New York

Bill...I'm pretty much an open book on this topic, so I needn't go on about how I agree and feel this is all so very vital. I do and it is. Period.

I would like to simply put a thing ot 2 out there for consideration to anyone interested.....and you've always been generous in allowing me this privilege.

Please beware of "charities," in general....know WHO runs them, request their annual reports, stay on top of news reports with regard to "Charities" that have been charged with any sort of fraud. At the present time, several Huge organizations (mostly in terms of our Veteran's) have been exposed for collecting MILLIONS of $$ for our Vets, that......you got it.......have not received ONE PENNY. This is the latest HOT news everywhere. Be very careful, please.

Having given this warning....there ARE ways to give and to share, that you can feel safe and secure about. All "Am-Vets' stores are run BY U.S. MILITARY AGENCIES....not outside companies. Proceeds from Am-Vets do go to help our Veteran's.

Do your own, private thing. You can go to a church office anywhere, and receive the name and address of a local "truly" needy family. You can have groceries and/or other necessities delivered to them or the church will pass things on to them...and you may do this anonymously or even outwardly. When I say, "truly" needy....I'm sure you know I speak of young families who do their very best to work and struggle to survive and provide for their families....and face difficulties anyway.

Finally, if you think that you, one person, cannot help in anyway or make a difference at all.........I beg of you......please, think again..

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Thank you Kelly! I respect you as a human being and your comment is one reason why I do.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

And perhaps, Mark, the evil lies within us! I don't know buddy, but I'm tired of it and want to see change while I'm still alive and kicking.

Thank you Mark!

Kelly Umphenour 5 years agofrom St. Louis, MO

See why I come here in the morning?! Thank you once again Bill. You always put a good thought in my head to start each day!

I also am a huge fan of Dalai Lama! He is so compassionate and I've read so many stories about the plight of Tibet. Interesting, up, awesome and everything else!

Mark G Weller 5 years agofrom Lake Charles, LA.

An awesome message Bill, I feel the same way. Even with all the problems I have I am in far better shape than many and it tears my heart every day as I see and feel the missery in this country and the world. Not only does out Govt. spend billions on aid to other places in the world, but billions killing people worldwide. We are in a battle against evil without a doubt!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

and God bless you as well, Sunnie!

Sunnie Day 5 years ago

I was the same way...it is so easy to say this or that until you really know the whole story with each case. God bless you.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Rich, it is hard to say; the problems are so many that finding one solution or answer is impossible. I just know it can't continue or we will implode as a nation.

Thank you buddy; I hope I didn't miss anything by you over the weekend when I was doing nothing.

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Natasha, you are so right. I have yet to have someone explain to me how we could have so many homeless and hungry in this nation and yet send billions in aid somewhere else. Makes no sense to me at all. As for helping without spending, you again are correct. I wish more people cared and would do something.....anything.

Thank you Natasha!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Linda, I am holding myself accountable. I just had a wonderful weekend and realized how blessed I truly am...and then I look around and I'm surrounded by misery. It's not right....not in this nation....no day is this right!

Thank you my dear friend!

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Sunnie, I want to get you started so you can carry on my rant. LOL Your words are so true....a lot of people talk the talk....I want as friends those who walk the walk. Thank you for a caring and eloquent comment. Until I worked with the homeless and the hunger I had no idea of the misery around me.

Rich 5 years agofrom Kentucky

This is a true case of "follow the leader." When the leaders of the land forget about those they supposedly represent, others tend to take on a "isolationist" survival mode. In other words, many have given up a hope. Plus, most are so down and out anymore, it's tough to give what you really don't have. I guess the 47% that the government doesn't care about are just following suit with what's being said about them. If a parent tells a kid they're a loser, they tend to believe it. Maybe that's what is going on, in a strange and obscene way. Hard to say, my friend. Hard to say.

Natasha 5 years agofrom Hawaii

I have to agree with carol7777! I am really tired of borrowing money from foreign nations to lend it to other foreign nations when we have people here that could use help. I don't know if it still exists, but about a year and a half ago I remember seeing ads with Jeff Bridges for fighting child hunger in America. I was so thrilled!

People always think they have to have a lot to be generous or care for others, but it simply isn't true. Even taking the time to smile at someone or donating some unused books can make another person's day. Anyone can "show more humanity."

Linda Crist 5 years agofrom Central Virginia

Well said my friend. I will sign the contract with you. Ours is not to judge but rather to be judged by a higher power than our own for our actions here in this life. There is no greater act than an act of kindness that is offered without judgment or expectation. What could we achieve if we lived as you suggest? Great things!

This hub should touch every heart Bill. Thank you for holding me accountaible.

Sunnie Day 5 years ago

Hi Billy,

Great hub! There are many who make a lot of noise but do nothing. It is when we step out of our comfort zones and pretty houses, doing the work. Unless we do the work, then we have nothing to say. Working with the mentally disadvantaged in the community for many years was an eye opener. Unless someone steps in and really cares, words mean nothing. We cannot judge every situation, making it our own judgement call, deciding who is doing what with the money...(meaning homeless)Whether on drugs or not, whether drowning in alcohol, he or she is still a human being and needs to eat and out of the cold. We treat our stray animals better than our fellow humans. It could be me or you, someones son or daughter..Sometimes the kindness of a stranger does more good than a family member who has exhausted everything to help them. I wonder just for a moment that it is a test of our own hearts, asking us to step it up...what are you going to do? For without the lives they lead, we may not know compassion. Don't get me started..haha..

Thank you my friend,

Sunnie

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Sue, I agree, it is overwhelming and confusing....who do I help today when there are so many to choose from?

Thank you for caring as much as you do; it makes me feel good to know you are on the job helping others.

Have a wonderful day yourself,

bill

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

Janine, of course you will, because you were raised correctly and you care about people. Sadly, people like you are in short supply. Thank you for being the person that you are!

Sueswan 5 years ago

Good Morning Bill

We are human but we need learn to be more humane. There are people who care more for animals cause they have not been hurt or let down as they have had by people.

I believe we should have respect for all life.

I do my part by donating to several charities but I have to admit it does get overwhelming as everyone has their hand out.

Have a good day.

Sharing :)

Janine Huldie 5 years agofrom New York, New York

Bill, so very true and can tell you too many people just don't care and only out for themselves. Even going food shopping this past weekend, I was helped to some really nasty, uncaring people only out for numero uno!! It is ridiculous and do agree with you. I try very hard not only think of me, but others too. Even the elderly person who has trouble finding something in the store, I will always be more than willing to go out of my way and help. Have of course voted and shared all over :) :)

Author

Bill Holland 5 years agofrom Olympia, WA

I'm not sure what you are sorry for....I agree with you, that there are those who take advantage of the system, and some who are not homeless.. I have a huge problem with helping other countries while we have hungry here.....so thank you for your honest and heartfelt comment.

carol stanley 5 years agofrom Arizona

Great and well written as always. My bone of contention is that the government spends many dollars on the feeding and care of foreign nations...and somehow we are left out. I know there are social services, but I still feel that we should take care of our own. Many homeless people just have not had the education, resources and a major dose of bad luck. It could happen to any of us. However, there are few who get into the situation because of not taking responsibility..I do feel sad when I see homeless out there..but I have often seen the homeless gathering dollars for beer and cigarettes. Sorry about this but I really feel passionately about justice.

This website uses cookies

As a user in the EEA, your approval is needed on a few things. To provide a better website experience, hubpages.com uses cookies (and other similar technologies) and may collect, process, and share personal data. Please choose which areas of our service you consent to our doing so.

This is used to display charts and graphs on articles and the author center. (Privacy Policy)

Google AdSense Host API

This service allows you to sign up for or associate a Google AdSense account with HubPages, so that you can earn money from ads on your articles. No data is shared unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)

This is used for a registered author who enrolls in the HubPages Earnings program and requests to be paid via PayPal. No data is shared with Paypal unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)

Facebook Login

You can use this to streamline signing up for, or signing in to your Hubpages account. No data is shared with Facebook unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)

Maven

This supports the Maven widget and search functionality. (Privacy Policy)

We may use remarketing pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to advertise the HubPages Service to people that have visited our sites.

Conversion Tracking Pixels

We may use conversion tracking pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to identify when an advertisement has successfully resulted in the desired action, such as signing up for the HubPages Service or publishing an article on the HubPages Service.

Statistics

Author Google Analytics

This is used to provide traffic data and reports to the authors of articles on the HubPages Service. (Privacy Policy)

Comscore

ComScore is a media measurement and analytics company providing marketing data and analytics to enterprises, media and advertising agencies, and publishers. Non-consent will result in ComScore only processing obfuscated personal data. (Privacy Policy)

Amazon Tracking Pixel

Some articles display amazon products as part of the Amazon Affiliate program, this pixel provides traffic statistics for those products (Privacy Policy)